Saskatchewan

The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code (SHRC) sanctions discrimination in the following areas: employment, education, works, housing, public services, contracts and purchases of goods, professional associations and trade unions.

The role of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (Commission) is to discourage and eliminate discrimination.

The Government of Saskatchewan abolished human rights tribunals in 2011 so that complaints that are not settled out of court will be heard in the Court of Queen's Bench.

What are the prohibited grounds of discrimination? Religion, creed, marital status, family status, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, colour, ancestry, nationality, place of origin, race or perceived race, receipt of public assistance, gender identity.

What are the time limits for filing a complaint? A complaint must be filed with the Commission within one year of the alleged discrimination. In exceptional cases, the Commission may accept a complaint after the one-year deadline if, in the opinion of the Chief Commissioner, the circumstances warrant it.

What is the process? Once a complaint has been filed, the Commission works with both parties to achieve an early and, if possible, amicable resolution of the complaint. It encourages mediation and may also investigate the complaint. The Commission may choose to dismiss the complaint, refer it to a more appropriate body or refer the matter to the Court of Queen's Bench.

How do I file a complaint? You can contact the Commission's office by mail, phone or e-mail to explain your situation to an Intake Consultant. You will then be asked to complete an intake questionnaire. Once the complaint form is signed, the complaint is officially filed.

What compensation can you get? The Tribunal may decide to issue an order that includes: an oral or written apology, reinstatement of lost rights or opportunities, adoption of anti-harassment/anti-discrimination policies, compensation for lost wages and pain and suffering.

This content has been updated on 4 March 2023 at 11 h 03 min.